amino_acid
Citrulline
TL;DR
L-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid named after watermelon (Citrullus lanatus). It is converted to L-arginine in the kidneys, making it a more efficient NO booster than arginine itself (arginine undergoes significant first-pass metabolism).
Overview
L-Citrulline is a non-essential amino acid named after watermelon (Citrullus lanatus). It is converted to L-arginine in the kidneys, making it a more efficient NO booster than arginine itself (arginine undergoes significant first-pass metabolism). One of the most validated pre-workout ingredients for blood flow and endurance.
26 / 565
products in our database contain Citrulline
Source · MoodStack database
Compound forms
Citrulline comes in several molecular forms. Each absorbs and acts differently.
Citrulline Malate (L-Citrulline DL-Malate)
mixture of (2S)-2-amino-5-carbamoylaminopentanoic acid and 2-hydroxysuccinic acid
Bioavailability
85%
Typical dose
—
L-Citrulline
(2S)-2-amino-5-(carbamoylamino)pentanoic acid
Bioavailability
88%
Typical dose
3–10 g
Benefits
- Superior nitric oxide production
- Exercise performance
- Blood pressure reduction
- Reduced muscle soreness
- Ammonia clearance
Dose guide
Common dose
3-8 g daily (citrulline malate: 6-8 g)
Typical range
3000–8000 mg
Based on 26 products in our database.
Products with Citrulline

Transparent Labs BULK Pre-Workout

Gorilla Mode Lightning

Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Pre-Workout Advanced

L-Citrulline

Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout

Gorilla Mode Nitric

Transparent Labs BULK Black Pre-Workout

WORK! - PreWorkout

Gorilla Mode Base Pre-Workout

Transparent Labs LEAN Pre-Workout
Interactions
synergistic. Citrulline is converted to arginine in the kidneys, but bypasses first-pass liver metabolism unlike oral arginine; citrulline raises arginine levels more effectively than arginine itself
synergistic. Citrulline enhances blood flow via nitric oxide while creatine enhances ATP regeneration; complementary performance mechanisms for strength and endurance
enhances. Citrulline boosts nitric oxide via the arginine-NO pathway; PDE5 inhibitors prevent NO-mediated cGMP breakdown; combined may cause excessive vasodilation and hypotension
synergistic. Citrulline delays fatigue via ammonia clearance and blood flow while beta-alanine buffers intramuscular acid; complementary endurance mechanisms
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Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.
